1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 103 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
